Donald Brown, age 78, passed away Saturday, November 20, 2021 at his home. He was born on July 09, 1943, in Edgerton, WI, the son of Clifford and Pauline (Durgin) Brown. He was known as Don to a few. To everybody else he was just Brownie. His wife was called Mrs. Brownie on occasion. He grew up around hard work. As a kid he ran two paper routes at a time, did farm work and any other odd jobs to help support his family. It was because of family financial hardships that he had to work and couldn’t finish high school with his class in 1961. Don had a nearly 50 year working career at St.Clare Hospital/The Monroe Clinic. First in the cafeteria and later in the laundry with his future wife and her Uncle Dick Maurer. He was a friend to all who worked there: Doctors, nurses, administration, maintenance guys and so on. Hospital chaplain the late Father Thomas Campion, became a close friend and a sometime supplier of Badger tickets over the years. Don was destined to the life of bachelorhood until he met and fell in love with his co-worker, Becky Buol. They were married on May 8, 1976. Becky brought to the marriage a new set of parents, four brothers, two sisters and a whole new life for Don. He was accepted as a son and a brother. Probably to his chagrin he became the lovable guy to get picked on by his new family on occasion. At the end of the day, he knew he was loved.

Don was a huge sports fan. Especially Monroe High School events. He was at any and all of these. Lee Mitchell and the basketball championship run in 1965 was probably his favorite memory. The cross-country harrier hounds that used to run at the Monroe Country Club, track in the spring, and girls’ softball at Twining Park were always on his schedule. He was a season ticket holder at boys’ basketball games for many years. He got to know these young people and in turn they respected him for his support. He was proud when his brothers in law Pete and Mike played basketball and nephews Jim and John played in state championship games in Madison. He got to know many of the opposing coaches and athletic directors along the way. He loved the Packers. He would go to games on occasion with the late Dr. Jack Murray. Of course, Don hated the Bears. He had no time for the Cubs or their fans either. As a Milwaukee Braves fan in the 50’s and 60’s he continued to follow them when they moved to Atlanta and became the Atlanta Braves. He was so happy and cried for joy when they just won the World Series this year. UW sports were watched also and when all- star wrestling came to town he would be there.

He was always proud of Monroe and Green County. He would take vacations just to spend the week at the fair. Balloon rallies, Cheese Days, and flea markets were just some events that got him outside enjoying walking and the nice weather. He was a regular at Ruef’s Confectionary, Baumgartner’s, Martin’s Sport Shop and The Corner Cafe on occasion stopping in to maybe just to say hello, catch up on local gossip and to be out among the people. He liked local fishing when he was younger. Playing euchre, lottery tickets and nickel slot machines brought him enjoyment. He collected many things over the years: Coins, ball cards, Coca Cola stuff, Santa Clauses, beanie babies back in the day and his latest like were red trucks for Christmas. He was a dog Dad to Fritz and Gus. Diet Coke was his beverage of choice. Burgers and fried chicken were on his dinner plate quite often.

He was very proud of his late twin brother Ron and older brother Cliff and their lifelong accomplishments. He always spoke highly of them. Cliff with his work and family in Rockford. Ron as a teacher and coach at Janesville Parker High School and the fine wife and kids that he had.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Twin brother Ron. Becky’s parents, Peter and Mary Buol. Sisters in law, Dorothy Brown, Joyce Buol, and Deena Buol. Brother-in-law Jack Thomas.

Survivors include, his wife of 45 years Becky, brother Cliff, brothers in law, Gary Goodman, George Buol, Scott Buol, Peter Buol, and Mike Buol. Sisters in law, Sandy Brown, Cyndi Goodman, Brenda Thomas, Robbyn Buol, and Kate Maresch. Nieces and nephews also.

Brownie loved his wife Becky and both sides of his family. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father figure, uncle, and friend to all that came to know him. He leaves an enormous hole in his loved ones lives as they gather this holiday season.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, December 3, 2021 at the Moose Lodge in Monroe from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Shriner Hager Gohlke Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: shriner111.com.